Selection on Functional Response Parameters

Abstract

In this chapter I show why there should be selection on traits associated with functional response parameters. I describe this using standard quantitative genetics techniques to show how a classic evolutionary arms race arises and how it depends on key features of the functional response. I suggest this arms race is more aptly described as a tug-of-war. I then show that selection on the predator and prey components of space clearance rate is synchronous for predator and prey through population cycles but alternating between predator and prey for handling time. I suggest that trade-offs, ecological pleiotropy, and phenotypic plasticity can slow natural selection on traits that influence functional response parameters.